Discover the Spanish cities where saving is most achievable in 2025

As living costs soar across Spain, a new study highlights cities where residents can still save money effectively. The report reveals surprising findings about the most favorable locations for saving, despite the ongoing economic pressures.

The rising cost of living, particularly in the housing market, has sparked significant concern among Spanish residents. Many locals and newcomers alike report that salaries have not kept pace with escalating expenses, leading to challenges in affording basic needs such as rent and utilities. The struggle to save money has become a common lament.

However, recent rankings provide a glimmer of hope. Research from consumer protection company Roams compared data from 50 provincial capitals, focusing on 30 essential products and services. This comprehensive analysis included costs for utilities, insurance, and public transport, as well as housing expenses.

The study utilized average salary figures for each city, offering insights into the percentage of income that residents allocate to living costs. Notably, the analysis focused on a hypothetical case study of a family living in a 90 m² home, factoring in expenses for a couple and one child.

Top 10 Spanish cities for savings

The findings reveal that smaller, less touristy cities in inland Spain often offer the best opportunities for financial savings. The following cities emerged as leaders in the rankings, showcasing the percentage of salary spent on living expenses:

- Palencia: Total expenses €15,386.81 – Average salary €42,320.00 – 36.36%

- Guadalajara: Total expenses €16,815.78 – Average salary €46,090.00 – 36.48%

- Castellón: Total expenses €16,229.95 – Average salary €43,012.00 – 37.73%

- Lugo: Total expenses €15,726.15 – Average salary €41,576.00 – 37.83%

- Lleida: Total expenses €16,529.58 – Average salary €43,130.00 – 38.33%

- Burgos: Total expenses €17,646.38 – Average salary €46,004.00 – 38.36%

- Valladolid: Total expenses €17,983.69 – Average salary €46,814.00 – 38.42%

- León: Total expenses €16,477.84 – Average salary €42,778.00 – 38.52%

- Ciudad Real: Total expenses €15,150.99 – Average salary €38,876.00 – 38.97%

- Teruel: Total expenses €16,382.74 – Average salary €41,554.00 – 39.43%

These cities not only boast lower living costs but also feature affordable property prices, making them attractive for those looking to save.

Surprising savings locations

Beyond the top ten, other cities also present intriguing savings potential. Areas in northern Spain, typically perceived as more expensive, are noted for their high salaries, allowing residents to save effectively. For instance:

- Zaragoza: Total expenses €18,554.78 – Average salary €46,692.00 – 39.72%

- Vitoria: Total expenses €22,297.44 – Average salary €55,992.00 – 39.82%

- Murcia: Total expenses €16,080.89 – Average salary €38,938.00 – 41.30%

- Pamplona: Total expenses €21,936.79 – Average salary €51,792.00 – 42.41%

- Bilbao: Total expenses €25,155.49 – Average salary €55,224.00 – 45.55%

These cities demonstrate that attractive savings opportunities exist even in regions known for higher living costs.

Challenging cities for saving

Conversely, the study identifies major cities where high living expenses significantly reduce the potential for savings. These locations, often characterized by escalating rents and costs of living, include:

- Mallorca: Total expenses €29,526.78 – Average salary €43,530.00 – 67.83%

- San Sebastián: Total expenses €35,857.19 – Average salary €55,968.00 – 64.07%

- Málaga: Total expenses €24,515.97 – Average salary €38,886.00 – 63.05%

- Cádiz: Total expenses €23,206.60 – Average salary €37,976.00 – 61.11%

- Barcelona: Total expenses €31,643.70 – Average salary €53,472.00 – 58.18%

- Madrid: Total expenses €33,464.74 – Average salary €58,894.00 – 56.82%

In these urban centers, residents face a stark reality: despite comparatively higher salaries, the overwhelming cost of living leaves little room for savings.

The landscape of savings potential across Spain is varied, with smaller inland cities offering the most promising conditions for residents seeking to secure their financial future. As Spain grapples with rising living costs, understanding where to live for optimal savings becomes increasingly vital.